Stern has a shot of making the Orioles as a reserve outfielder in 2007, but is disadvantaged because the team only has one right-handed outfielder, Jay Payton, on the roster as of the beginning of the season. In any case, he wouldn�t supplant starters Payton, Corey Patterson or Nick Markakis in the starting lineup, so he has minimal fantasy value.

2006

Stern was taken by the Red Sox in the Rule 5 draft prior to the 2005 season. Through some convenient injuries (fractured thumb, shoulder), he managed to stay with the major league club all season. He eventually underwent labrum surgery and is expected to begin the season at Triple-A Pawtucket. Stern's best as a center fielder and has some speed, though we didn't see much of that last year. If the Red Sox don't bring in a veteran to replace Johnny Damon, Stern has a better shot at the majors but may not open the season as the starter. He will probably get back to Boston this year, but only as a late-inning pinch-runner.